- One of Turkey's smallest provinces, right on the Syrian border
- Kilis town is within or very close to the FCDO's 10 km no-travel zone
- Known for olive oil, grapes and local dishes
- Affected by the February 2023 earthquakes
- Airports
- Gaziantep (GZT), about an hour by road
- Best time to go
- April-May and October
- Type
- Province
Kilis is one of Turkey's smallest provinces, a gentle landscape of olive groves and vineyards on the Syrian border in Southeastern Anatolia. It has long been a trading town, and its cuisine is closely related to that of nearby Gaziantep and Aleppo.
The UK FCDO advises against all travel within 10 km of the Syrian border, and Kilis town lies only a few kilometres from it. Much of the province falls within that zone. Check the latest FCDO travel advice before booking. The province was also affected by the earthquakes of February 2023. For general planning, see our Turkey guide.
What the province is known for
- Olive oil – Kilis olive groves produce a well-regarded oil.
- Grapes and molasses – vineyards supply grapes for pekmez and fresh fruit.
- Kilis tava – a local dish of minced meat with vegetables baked in a tray.
- Cennet çamuru – "heaven's mud", a rich local dessert.
- Ravanda Castle – a medieval castle on a hill outside Kilis town.
- Old town – mosques, hans and stone houses in the centre.
Where to stay
Most visitors to the area base themselves in Gaziantep, which has far more hotels, the Zeugma Mosaic Museum and the region's best food scene.
Getting there
Fly from the UK to Istanbul (about four hours), then on to Gaziantep. Kilis is roughly an hour's drive south. Because of the border zone, check the latest FCDO travel advice before planning any visit.
Best time to visit
If travel is advised, spring and autumn. Summers are hot and dry.
Top attractions in Kilis
Kilis on the map
Frequently asked questions
Can I visit Kilis?
Read the current FCDO travel advice first. It advises against all travel within 10 km of the Syrian border, which covers Kilis town and much of the province.
What can I try from Kilis without going there?
Gaziantep's restaurants and markets serve many similar dishes, and Kilis olive oil is sold in the region.
Was Kilis affected by the 2023 earthquakes?
Yes, it was one of the provinces affected, though less severely than some of its neighbours.
Written by
Anna Beach, family & practical travel editor
Anna knows which beach has shade at 3pm and which car hire excess is a rip-off. She covers sun, islands, family trips and practical travel tips.
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